It looks like 2025 could be a big year for Jean-Marc Bosman. As we head into the new year, a huge list of Premier League players seem destined to leave their clubs on free transfers named after the long-retired Belgian.
With the January transfer window traditionally a difficult period for business, many clubs could focus on keeping their own this winter.
Especially the aristocracy of the Premier League has work to do. Liverpool were the division’s dominant force in 2024/25, but fans could not ignore the ambiguity surrounding the futures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
Potential foreign buyers can, of course, start laying the groundwork from January 1 and discuss potential summer transfers with free agents, and Real Madrid are reported to have already made an approach for Alexander-Arnoldwho seems the most likely of the three greats to leave Anfield.
Manchester City’s shock collapse could convince them that a complete overhaul is needed, which could facilitate the departures of veteran pair Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan. Son Heung-min has long been adored Tottenhambut the regression he has shown this term means there is no guarantee that Spurs will commit to their captain.
It’s not just the big boys who have something to think about. Clubs across the division risk losing major stars for nothing in 2025.
Christian Norgaard has not yet extended at Brentford, nor has Golden Boot candidate Chris Wood at Nottingham Forest, Fabian Schar at Newcastle, Tyrick Mitchell at Crystal Palace or Jamie Vardy at Leicester.
Manchester United are certain to tie down Amado Diallo given the glimmer of hope he has offered following the departure of Erik ten Hag, while Harry Maguire has also teased a resurgence under new manager Ruben Amorim. Senior Christian Eriksen is more likely to walk.
On January 1, 2025, 82 Premier League players have entered the final six months of their contracts.
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